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New Zealand Multisport

New Zealand Multisport

Journey to New Zealand's North Island and you'll find a land of such astounding diversity, you couldn't imagine limiting yourself to just one activity - this area is perfect for biking, hiking, kayaking, rafting, swimming and much more. Journey with Backroads from the lush Coromandel Peninsula, to the geothermal region of Rotorua and the famous Hawke's Bay wine region, with plenty of opportunities to stop and taste the local elixir. Combine the country's extraordinary beauty with its people's adventurous spirit and effortless hospitality, and you've got a destination ideal for active exploration.

 

Days 1-2 pauanui

Meet in Auckland and shuttle to the Coromandel Peninsula  Our Kiwi guide Damian Johansen leads a walk through the pristine forest Pedal to Hahei and hike to the white-rock sculpture of Cathedral Cove, where white-sand beaches and warm waters await.

Days 3-4 rotorua

Hike the lush Karangahake Gorge, crossing suspension bridges and walking through an old gold-mining tunnel before cooling off with a swim under a waterfall  Kayak on tranquil Lake Rotoiti and take a dip in lakeside hot springs  Bike along Lake Rotorua's beautiful north shore  On a tour of the Agrodome, feed sheep, deer and emu, and see Kiwi sheepshearers in action.

Day 5 taupo

Pedal along rolling pastures of Kiwi farmland with dramatic vistas  Visit Waikite Hot Pools for a relaxing soak  At Waiotapu, walk past geysers, thermal springs, colorful silica terraces and percolating mud pots.

Days 6-8 Havelock North

Take a walk to impressive Huka Falls  Feeling fearless? Try a bungee jump over the Waikato River  Pedal through the beautiful and world-famous Hawke's Bay wine region, past vineyards and shady oak trees, and stop for tastings  Hike through redwoods and sheep pastures to the top of dramatic Te Mata Peak for 360-degree views.

big map New Zealand Multisport

INTIMATE RETREATS: Premiere Inns

Puka Park Resort (2 nights): Settle into your private chalet at this secluded wilderness retreat set among 25 acres of New Zealand bush.

Duxton Hotel (2 nights): Enjoy wonderful lake views and fine New Zealand hospitality at this resort, set right on the shore of Lake Rotoiti.

Millennium Hotel (1 night): Waterfront guest rooms, a pool and tennis courts nestled on the shore of Lake Taupo.

Mangapapa Petit Hotel (2 nights): Built over a century ago, this beautifully renovated country retreat offers lovely grounds, an incredible restaurant and a host of amenities.

Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
New Zealand Multisport
Trips For All Abilities

Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.

Activity Level Average Time Average Distance
    Biking Walking & Hiking
Level 1 2-3 hours 10-20 mile 2-5 miles
Level 2 2-4 hours 21-30 miles 5-7 miles
Level 3 3-5 hours 31-40 miles 7-9 miles
Level 4 4-6 hours 41-55 miles 9-11 miles
Level 5 5-7+ hours 56-75+ miles 11-13+ miles
2009 DATES
CLASSIC TRIPS
2010 DATES
CLASSIC TRIPS

Reserve early for the best available price. Prices may change during the course of the year--if they do change, the best prices are available earlier. Once you book your trip, your price is guaranteed.

Guest Trip Reviews

I can't wait to take another Backroads trip. It proved to be the best way to experience a new place and be assured we're hitting the high points of each location. It is a great feeling to be taken care of and treated so well by our leaders!
James Nancekivell - St. Paul, MN

It's hard to describe how wonderful and enriching this trip was. I learned more about the country of New Zealand than I ever thought possible. And the views were breathtaking. I didn't want to come home! I can't say enough about Backroads and am already anticipating my next trip!
Christine Carlo - Watertown, MA

All the local guides on the trip were exceptional. They were so well-informed and attentive to our interests.
William Colon - Minneapolis, MN